The sun dawned on a city anxious to change its destiny. They came out in droves – many even before polling time officially commenced. They waited in long queues – young, old, men, women. Many had brought their children along. It almost seemed like Eid all over again – neighbours greeting old friends meeting even older acquaintances. It almost seemed a different Karachi – peaceful, hopeful, even cheerful at the prospects of what was to come.
Contrary to tradition, people in Karachi voted peacefully for what observers believe to be a change in the selection of elected representatives. As news of the proceedings poured in throughout the day, what was conspicuously missing were reports of clashes, bogus voting or forced takeover of polling stations.
Ahmed Riaz, 75, could barely make it to the polling booth. The narrow steps leading up to the dingy classroom in Royal Grammar School, Defence View, took a toll on his flailing health. But he refused to give, finally reaching the booth after several pauses. “Perhaps this is my last vote,” the retired government officer told
The Express Tribune. “My lungs have become troublesome. My sons suggested I don’t go to vote, but I refused. I don’t want to waste my vote because I believe each vote counts,” he said.
The presiding officer at the polling station claimed all was well with the arrangements, except the stairway. A polling officer stationed at the same facility told
The Express Tribune that the turnout had been so low, they were expecting it to finish at 40% by the end of the day.
Elections
